Sunseeker International has committed to using an innovative vacuum bagging technique to deliver an optimal finish on decks across all its yachts, a new case study by West System International (WSI) reveals.
Following a highly successful trial implementation of the technique, the luxury yacht builder will use PRO-SET ADV-170 Adhesive and vacuum bagging as standard for pre-fabricated teak deck installation across some 200 boats a year.
According to Ned Popham, Composites Manager at Sunseeker International, this new method is safer, quicker and cleaner than screwing or weighing down pre-fabricated decks. “As well as being inconvenient and tiring, weighting the deck down during bonding was a health and safety issue for us. The installation of teak decking is much safer and cleaner now with PRO-SET adhesive and vacuum bagging.”
Popham also believes this new process helps Sunseeker International achieve an excellent finish, every time. “Teak decking extends from the bridge to the bathing platform, steps and hatches and it contributes hugely to the overall appearance of the boat. The combination of PRO-SET epoxy for fairing and bonding, combined with vacuum bagging, helps us ensure that there are no imperfections or dips that cause pooling when the decking is wet.
“With PRO-SET epoxy and vacuum bagging we can build beautiful, contoured decks that delight our customers.”
Sunseeker International has always used PRO-SET epoxy for bonding, although it has tried other fillers. “In the past we used polyester-based fillers but they didn’t work well with epoxy and cure times were far too long,” said Popham. “With PRO-SET Fairing Compound our technicians can fair in, sand down the surface and bond down the deck – all in just a couple of days.”
The case study outlines the luxury yacht builder’s deck installation process using PRO-SET epoxy and vacuum bagging. It also details a variety of additional benefits that Sunseeker International enjoys by using PRO-SET epoxy; namely, the product’s suitability for projects of all sizes, its easy application and the excellent technical support and training offered by WSI.
To read the case study in full, click here.
